First Impressions of Ladakh

“Julay Julay” .. This is was the first words that we heard once we reached Ladakh, Walking around Ladakh and hearing everyone welcoming us with this word was enough to make us feel the kindness of its people. later on we learned that “Julay” means “Hello”, “Goodbye” or “Thank you”. Wherever you go and to anyone you said it you will have reply back “Julay Julay”.

Warm and peaceful, Ladakh could be described with these two words. We fall in love with Ladakh the time we landed in its airport! not only being so impressed while watching Himalayas mountain ranges when flying over the region, but although we arrived to the militant airport in Leh, we had a very warm welcoming, Beautiful Ladakhi women were standing next to the gate welcoming all the arrivals.

We didn’t have the chance to interact much with local people, but the time we spent with our guide in the trekking trip which you can read about it here, and the chit chat with local shopkeepers and the smiles we exchanged with different people did its magic to us.

Leh city is very special by itself, When we arrived to the guest house stay we couldn’t ask for more… very traditional place, so simple, clean and very beautiful garden. Coming from very crowded Delhi, we really appreciated having such peaceful atmosphere.

The first time we went to explore the city, we noticed that it is is full of tourists, the roads, restaurants and the market! but this didn’t bother us at all, there is a very special atmosphere where you feel that everyone is relaxed and comfortable. A feeling that directly moved to us, In which we decided to spend more days in Leh after coming back from the trekking trip. The city also is the first stop for the trekkers who spend in it several days to acclimatise with the high altitude. you can equip yourself of whatever needed from the market before leaving to the mountains.

Leh is the capital of Ladakh, located by the Chinese (Tibetan) and Nepal borders. The Tibetan touch is reflected everywhere in the city, the architecture, handicrafts and the food. The city also form a great mix of Buddhist and Muslims, it is so superb to see very old monasteries and mosques in one area.

Going further to Leh market that has a variety of handicrafts, You can find silver jewelries, turquoise, coral stones, hand woven blankets, Pashmina and Cashmere shawls. Shopping was not in our list but we couldn’t resist to go around and buy some of the things that drew our attention.

Returning back to Leh after finishing our trekking adventure in the Himalays was the perfect way to end our trip in Ladakh. and great reminder again of how much we love this city!